Being a part of a wind band for over a decade has taught me something fundamental: the power of consistent rehearsal. Whether it’s preparing for a big concert or ensuring we’re ready for every subtle cue, rehearsals are about more than just hitting the right notes. They’re about building muscle memory, syncing with others, and being prepared for any surprises that might arise. In many ways, this mirrors my work in cybersecurity, specifically in preparing companies to handle phishing attacks.
Imagine a band getting ready for a performance. Each musician must not only play their part but also anticipate the dynamics of the group – knowing when to lead, when to follow, and when to be alert for unexpected shifts in tempo. Similarly, companies face constant threats like phishing attacks in today’s digital world. It’s not enough to know about the risk; employees must be trained, just like musicians, to recognize the cues, react appropriately, and work in harmony with their team to mitigate threats.
In both scenarios, the key to success is regular, thoughtful practice. Just as a single rehearsal isn’t enough for a flawless performance, a one-time security training won’t keep a company safe. Continuous training helps employees recognize phishing attempts, understand how to respond, and act quickly to prevent harm. Each simulated phishing email is like a rehearsal – an opportunity to learn, adjust, and strengthen defenses. Over time, this repetition builds a culture where vigilance is second nature, just as a well-rehearsed band instinctively knows how to perform together.
At its core, it’s about creating resilience. A band doesn’t just prepare for the easy pieces; we practice the tough, unpredictable ones too, because we know that in live performance, anything can happen. The same goes for cybersecurity. Threats evolve, leaving companies vulnerable to new tactics without continuous training. However, by training regularly and learning from each attempt, companies become more resilient and ready to face whatever comes their way.
Both music and cybersecurity require discipline, collaboration, and the ability to anticipate the unexpected. In my role as Head of Customer Success at a leading Cybersecurity Readiness Training company, I’ve seen firsthand how continuous, immersive training – like rehearsals – empowers teams to confidently face potential threats. The result? not only a successful performance but also a stronger, secure company that can outsmart cybercriminals.
Just as the payoff for musicians is the standing ovation at the end of a concert, for companies, it’s the confidence that comes from knowing they’ve reduced their risk and are better prepared to handle whatever comes their way. Together, we orchestrate security.
Shai Horstock, PMP, is the Head of Customer Success at CybeReady Learning Solutions and a saxophonist in an amateur wind band, “MyOrchestra”.
